Moringa oleifera leaf extract lowers high blood pressure by alleviating vascular dysfunction and decreasing oxidative stress in L-NAME hypertensive rats

Current insights and future perspectives of flavonoids: A promising antihypertensive approach

Hypertension, or high blood pressure (BP), is a complex disease influenced by various risk factors. It is characterized by persistent elevation of BP levels, typically exceeding 140/90 mmHg. Endothelial dysfunction and reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability play crucial roles in hypertension development. L-NG-nitro arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), an analog of L-arginine, inhibits endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) enzymes, leading to decreased NO production and increased BP. Animal models exposed to L-NAME manifest hypertension, making it a useful design for studying the hypertension condition. Natural products have gained interest as alternative approaches for managing hypertension. Flavonoids, abundant in fruits, vegetables, and other plant sources, have potential cardiovascular benefits, including antihypertensive effects. Flavonoids have been extensively studied in cell cultures, animal models, and, to lesser extent, in human trials to evaluate their effectiveness against L-NAME-induced hypertension. This comprehensive review summarizes the antihypertensive activity of specific flavonoids, including quercetin, luteolin, rutin, troxerutin, apigenin, and chrysin, in L-NAME-induced hypertension models. Flavonoids possess antioxidant properties that mitigate oxidative stress, a major contributor to endothelial dysfunction and hypertension. They enhance endothelial function by promoting NO bioavailability, vasodilation, and the preservation of vascular homeostasis. Flavonoids also modulate vasoactive factors involved in BP regulation, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and endothelin-1. Moreover, they exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, attenuating inflammation-mediated hypertension. This review provides compelling evidence for the antihypertensive potential of flavonoids against L-NAME-induced hypertension. Their multifaceted mechanisms of action suggest their ability to target multiple pathways involved in hypertension development. Nonetheless, the reviewed studies contribute to the evidence supporting the useful of flavonoids for hypertension prevention and treatment. In conclusion, flavonoids represent a promising class of natural compounds for combating hypertension. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource summarizing the current knowledge on the antihypertensive effects of specific flavonoids, facilitating further investigation and guiding the development of novel therapeutic strategies for hypertension management.

Phyto-Fabrication of Moringa Oleifera Peel-Sourced Silver Nanoparticles: A Promising Approach for Combating Hepatic Cancer by Targeting Proinflammatory Cytokines and Mitigating Cytokine Storms

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arises from precancerous nodules, leading to liver damage and inflammation, which triggers the release of proinflammatory cytokines. Dysregulation of these cytokines can escalate into a cytokine storm, causing severe organ damage. Interestingly, Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) fruit peel, previously discarded as waste, contains an abundance of essential biomolecules and high nutritional value. This study focuses on the eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles infused with M. oleifera peel extract biomolecules and their impact on regulating proinflammatory cytokines, as well as their potential anticancer effects against Wistar rats. The freshly synthesized nanoformulation underwent comprehensive characterization, followed by antihepatic cancer evaluation using a diethyl nitrosamine-induced model (at a dose of 200 mg kg-1 BW). The study demonstrates a significant reduction in proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, and nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB). Furthermore, it confirms that the newly biosynthesized silver nanoparticles exhibit additional potential against hepatic cancer due to their capped biomolecules.

Safety classification of herbal medicine use among hypertensive patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The use of herbal medicines (HMs) for the treatment of hypertension (HTN) is increasing globally, but research on the potential adverse effects and safety of HMs in HTN patients is limited. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aim to determine the global prevalence of HM usage among HTN patients and assess the safety of identified herbs based on current scientific evidence.

Methods

The PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE (Ovid), and Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases were searched for cross-sectional studies on the use of HM among HTN patients. Our review includes studies published in English up to the year 2023. After extracting and appraising the data from the studies, a meta-analysis was conducted using the Stata version 16.0 to estimate the pooled prevalence of HM use in patients with HTN (PROSPERO: CRD42023405537). The safety classification of the identified HM was done based on the existing scientific literature.

Results

This study analyzed 37 cross-sectional studies from 21 countries and found that 37.8% of HTN patients used HM to manage their health. The prevalence of HM use varied significantly based on publication year and geographical region. Among the 71 identified herbs, Allium sativum L., Hibiscus sabdariffa L., and Olea europaea L. were the most commonly used. However, four herbs were identified as contraindicated, 50 herbs required caution, and only 11 herbs were considered safe for use.

Conclusion

The study highlights the potential risks of toxicities and adverse effects associated with HM use in the treatment of HTN. Ensuring patient safety involves using safe HMs in appropriate doses and avoiding contraindicated HMs. Future research should focus on identifying commonly used herbs, especially in resource-limited countries with poor HTN management, and additional clinical research is required to assess the toxicity and safety of commonly used HMs.

A comprehensive review of the botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, quality control and other applications of Ligustici Rhizoma et Radix

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ligusticum sinense Oliv. and L. jeholense Nakai et Kitag. are globally recognized as medicinal botanical species, specifically the rhizomes and roots. These plant parts are collectively referred to as Ligustici Rhizoma et Radix (LReR), which is recorded in the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China (Ch. P). LReR enjoys widespread recognition in many countries such as China, Russia, Vietnam, and Korea. It is an herbal remedy traditionally employed for dispelling wind and cold, eliminating dampness, and alleviating pain. Numerous bioactive compounds have been successfully isolated and identified, displaying a diverse array of pharmacological activities and medicinal value.

THE AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aims to primarily center on the botanical aspects, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicity, quality control, and other applications of LReR to furnish a comprehensive and multidimensional foundation for future exploration and utilization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Relevant information about LReR was acquired from ancient books, doctoral and master's dissertations, Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), ScienceDirect, classical literature, and clinical reports. Several electronic databases were also incorporated.

RESULTS

In traditional usage, LReR had been traditionally employed for the treatment of anemofrigid headaches, colds, and joint pain. It possessed therapeutic properties for facial skin disorders, thereby facilitating skin regeneration. It has been subjected to comprehensive chemical analysis, resulting in the identification and isolation of 190 compounds, including phthalides, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, triterpenes, steroids, volatile oil, fatty acids, and other constituents. The pharmacological activities have been in-depth explored through modern in vivo and in vitro studies, confirming its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-melanin effects. Furthermore, it exhibited pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial, and vasodilatory properties. This study provides a basic to contribute to the advancement of research, medicinal applications and product development related to LReR.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering its traditional and contemporary applications, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological properties, LReR was regarded as a valuable botanical resource for pharmaceutical and pest control purposes. While certain constituents had demonstrated diverse pharmacological activities and application potential, further elucidation was required to fully understand their specific actions and underlying mechanisms. Hence, there was a need to conduct additional investigations to uncover its material foundation and mode of action.

Moringa oleifera Lam. as a potential plant for alleviation of the metabolic syndrome-A narrative review based on in vivo and clinical studies

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) refers to the co-occurrence of risk factors, including hyperglycaemia, increased body weight, hypertension and dyslipidemia, which eventually lead to diabetes and cardiovascular disease, a common health problem worldwide. Recently, there has been an increasing interest in the use of plant-based products for the management of MetS, because of their less detrimental and more beneficial effects. Moringa oleifera (Moringaceae), commonly known as drumstick, is cultivated worldwide for its nutritional and medicinal properties. This review focuses on the in vivo and human studies concerning the potential of M. oleifera in the alleviation of MetS and its comorbidities. The search for relevant articles was carried out in PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Randomised controlled and clinical trials from the PubMed database were included in this review. The results suggested that the administration of M. oleifera, in vivo, shows clear signs of improvement in MetS indices. Despite fewer human studies, the existing data documented convincing results that uphold the potential of M. oleifera against MetS. Therefore, future research discussing the probable mechanism of action is much needed which could further assure the usage of M. oleifera in the treatment regimen of MetS.

Kaempferol protects against cardiovascular abnormalities induced by nitric oxide deficiency in rats by suppressing the TNF-α pathway

Kaempferol is a natural flavonoid compound that exhibits various pharmacological actions. However, there are few reports regarding the role of kaempferol in cardiovascular abnormalities. This study aimed to assess whether kaempferol could prevent cardiovascular malfunction and hypertrophy provoked by chronic inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) formation in rats. Rats (180-200 g) were treated daily with Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) (40 mg/kg, in drinking water) for five weeks concomitant with kaempferol (oral administration) at a dose of 20 mg/kg or 40 mg/kg or lisinopril (5 mg/kg). Kaempferol partially prevented the progression of hypertension provoked by NO inhibition (p < 0.05). Left ventricular malfunction and hypertrophy present in hypertensive rats were alleviated by concurrent administration of kaempferol (p < 0.05). Furthermore, L-NAME rats had increased sympathetic nerve-mediated vasoconstriction and decreased acetylcholine-induced vasorelaxation and aortic wall thickening, which were resolved by kaempferol treatment (p < 0.05). Kaempferol restored tissue superoxide formation, malondialdehyde, catalase activity, plasma nitric oxide metabolites, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 in L-NAME rats (p < 0.05). Overexpression of tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3K), AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (Akt1) and smad2/3 in heart tissue and upregulation of tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1), phosphorylated nuclear factor-kappaB (p-NF-κB) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) in vascular tissue were suppressed by kaempferol (p < 0.05). In conclusion, kaempferol exerts antihypertensive, cardioprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects in NO-dependent hypertensive rats. The underlying mechanisms of kaempferol in preventing cardiovascular changes induced by L-NAME were due to the suppression of the TNF-α pathway.

Moringa oleifera: a valuable insight into recent advances in medicinal uses and pharmacological activities

Moringa oleifera is an important medicinal plant in several countries; for example, Nigeria, the USA, Turkey, Germany, Greece, and Ukraine. The abundant bioactive and nutritional properties of this plant make it useful in many and diverse areas of life, including the health, cosmetic, agricultural, and food industries to mention but a few. Research has found that the presence of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, phenols, alkaloids, fatty acids, saponins, essential oils, folate, aromatic hydrocarbons, sterols, glucosinolates, and glycosides, among others, characterize the moringa nutrient profile and, as a result, give rise to its remedial effects on ailments such as wounds, stomach and duodenal ulcers, allergies, obesity, diabetes, inflammation, asthma, and so on. It is the aim of this review to provide an insight into such medicinal and pharmacological remedies attributed to moringa, stating both the past and recent discoveries. This review article also takes a look into the botanical features, bioactive compounds, antinutrients, food applications, bacterial fermentation products, biosafety, industrial applications, and other uses of moringa. Finally, with the belief that knowledge is progressive, we acknowledge that there are things yet undiscovered about this wonder plant that will be of value both to medicine and general life; we therefore recommend that research work continues on the moringa plant. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Innovative Materials with Possible Applications in the Wound Dressings Field: Alginate-Based Films with Moringa oleifera Extract

For a long time, biopolymers have proven their effectiveness in the development of materials with various applications, lately those intended for the biomedical and pharmaceutical industries, due to their high biocompatibility and non-toxic, non-allergenic, and non-immunogenic nature. The ability to incorporate various active substances in this matrix has yielded materials with characteristics that are far superior to those of classic, conventional ones. The beneficial effects of consuming Moringa oleifera have promoted the use of this plant, from Ayurvedic to classical medicine. The addition of such compounds in the materials intended for the treatment of surface wounds may represent the future of the development of innovative dressings. This study followed the development of materials based on sodium alginate and moringa powder or essential oil for use as dressings, pads, or sheets. Thus, three materials with the addition of 10-30% moringa powder and three materials with the addition of 10-30% essential oil were obtained. The data were compared with those of the control sample, with sodium alginate and plasticizer. The microtopography indicated that the materials have a homogeneous matrix that allows them to incorporate and maintain natural compounds with prolonged release. For example, the sample with 30% moringa essential oil kept its initial shape and did not disintegrate, although the swelling ratio value reached 4800% after 20 min. After testing the mechanical properties, the same sample had the best tensile strength (TS = 0.248 MPa) and elongation (31.41%), which is important for the flexibility of the dressing. The same sample exhibited a very high antioxidant capacity (60.78% inhibition). The materials obtained with moringa powder added presented good values of physical and mechanical properties, which supports their use as wound dressings for short-term application and the release of embedded compounds. According to the obtained results, all the biopolymeric materials with moringa added can be used as dressings for different wound types.

Supplementation of Moringa oleifera leaf concentrate pellets on nutrient utilization, antioxidant status, and reproductive performance of prolific ewes during extreme summer months in semi-arid tropical conditions

A feeding trial was conducted for a period of 60 days during extreme summer months to observe the effect of supplementation of Moringa oleifera leaves containing concentrate pellets on nutrient utilization, antioxidant status, and reproductive performance in Avishaan ewes reared under semi-arid condition. Forty adult non-pregnant cyclic ewes (2-3 years, 31.8 ± 0.81 kg body weight) were selected and randomly allocated into 2 groups of 20 animals each, viz., G-I (control) and G-II (treatment). The ewes were grazed on natural pasture for 8 h, offered ad libitum Cenchrus ciliaris hay after grazing and concentrate pellets @ 300 g/animal/day. The ewes in G-I were offered conventional concentrate pellets, whereas G-II ewes were offered concentrate pellets containing 15% Moringa leaves. The mean temperature humidity index during the period of study was 27.5 ± 0.3 and 34.6 ± 0.4 at 0700 h and 1400 h, respectively, indicating severe heat stress. Nutrient intake and utilization were comparable between the two groups. The antioxidant status was higher in G-II ewes as the values of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and total antioxidant capacity were higher (P < 0.05) in G-II ewes compared to G-I. The conception rate was higher (100%) in G-II ewes than G-I ewes (70%). Multiple birth percentage was 77.8% in G-II ewes, and it was comparable with the herd average of Avishaan (74.7%). However, ewes in G-I group exhibited a marked decline in multiple birth percentage (28.6%) than the normal herd average. Hence, it can be concluded that inclusion of Moringa oleifera leaves in feeding of prolific Avishaan ewes improved their antioxidant status resulting in optimum reproductive performance during stressful summer months.

Pulegone Prevents Hypertension through Activation of Muscarinic Receptors and Cyclooxygenase Pathway in L-NAME-Induced Hypertensive Rats

The current study was designed to determine pulegone's antihypertensive and vasoprotective activity in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats. Firstly, the hypotensive dose-response relationship of pulegone was evaluated in normotensive anesthetized rats using the invasive method. Secondly, the mechanism involved in hypotensive activity was determined in the presence of pharmacological drugs such as atropine/muscarinic receptor blocker (1 mg/kg), L-NAME/NOS inhibitor (20 mg/kg), and indomethacin/COX inhibitor (5 mg/kg) in anesthetized rats. Furthermore, studies were carried out to assess the preventive effect of pulegone in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats. Hypertension was induced in rats by administering L-NAME (40 mg/kg) orally for 28 days. Rats were divided into six groups which were treated orally with tween 80 (placebo), captopril (10 mg/kg), and different doses of pulegone (20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg, and 80 mg/kg). Blood pressure, urine volume, sodium, and body weight were monitored weekly. After 28 days, the effect of pulegone on lipid profile, hepatic markers, antioxidant enzymes, and nitric oxide was estimated from the serum of treated rats. Moreover, plasma mRNA expression of eNOS, ACE, ICAM1, and EDN1 was measured using real-time PCR. Results show that pulegone dose-dependently decreased blood pressure and heart rate in normotensive rats, with the highest effect at 30 mg/kg/i.v. The hypotensive effect of pulegone was reduced in the presence of atropine and indomethacin, whereas L-NAME did not change its hypotensive effect. Concurrent treatment with pulegone for four weeks in L-NAME-treated rats caused a reduction in both systolic blood pressure and heart rate, reversed the reduced levels of serum nitric oxide (NO), and ameliorated lipid profile and oxidative stress markers. Treatment with pulegone also improved the vascular response to acetylcholine. Plasma mRNA expression of eNOS was reduced, whereas ACE, ICAM1, and EDN1 levels were high in the L-NAME group, which was facilitated by pulegone treatment. To conclude, pulegone prevented L-NAME-induced hypertension by demonstrating a hypotensive effect through muscarinic receptors and cyclooxygenase pathway, indicating its use as a potential candidate in managing hypertension.

Moringa oleifera: An Updated Comprehensive Review of Its Pharmacological Activities, Ethnomedicinal, Phytopharmaceutical Formulation, Clinical, Phytochemical, and Toxicological Aspects

Moringa oleifera, also known as the "tree of life" or "miracle tree," is classified as an important herbal plant due to its immense medicinal and non-medicinal benefits. Traditionally, the plant is used to cure wounds, pain, ulcers, liver disease, heart disease, cancer, and inflammation. This review aims to compile an analysis of worldwide research, pharmacological activities, phytochemical, toxicological, and ethnomedicinal updates of Moringa oleifera and also provide insight into its commercial and phytopharmaceutical applications with a motive to help further research. The scientific information on this plant was obtained from various sites and search engines such as Scopus, Pub Med, Science Direct, BMC, Google Scholar, and other scientific databases. Articles available in the English language have only been referred for review. The pharmacological studies confirm the hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and anti-inflammatory potential of the extracts from the various plant parts. It was found that bioactive constituents are present in every part of the plant. So far, more than one hundred compounds from different parts of Moringa oleifera have been characterized, including alkaloids, flavonoids, anthraquinones, vitamins, glycosides, and terpenes. In addition, novel isolates such as muramoside A&B and niazimin A&B have been identified in the plant and have potent antioxidant, anticancer, antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, and nutritional effects. The traditional and nontraditional use of Moringa, its pharmacological effects and their phytopharmaceutical formulations, clinical studies, toxicity profile, and various other uses are recognized in the present review. However, several traditional uses have yet to be scientifically explored. Therefore, further studies are proposed to explore the mechanistic approach of the plant to identify and isolate active or synergistic compounds behind its therapeutic potential.

Study of the Antihypertensive and Vasorelaxant Activities of Haloxylon scoparium in Rats

AIMS

The work aimed to study the antihypertensive ability of Haloxylon scoparium.

BACKGROUND

Haloxylon scoparium Pomel is used to treat various diseases, including hypertension.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the antihypertensive effect of Haloxylon scoparium (H. scoparium) in hypertensive rats, and to evaluate its probable vasorelaxant activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The aqueous extract of Haloxylon scoparium (AEHS) was prepared and used to investigate its antihypertensive ability in L-NAME(Nω-L-arginine methyl ester)-induced hypertensive rats, and its vasorelaxant activity was studied on the isolated thoracic aorta of rats. The acute and subchronic effects of (AEHS) on blood pressure parameters were evaluated after oral administration of AEHS (60 and 100 mg/kg body weight) for 6 h for the acute experiment and for 7 days for the subchronic test.

RESULTS

The results indicated that AEHS decreased blood pressure parameters (systolic, mean, and diastolic blood pressure) after repeated oral administration in hypertensive rats without affecting normal rats. In addition, AEHS (375-1250 μg/mL) revealed a vasorelaxant effect in thoracic aortic rings precontracted with norepinephrine (NE) (10 μM) or KCl (80 mM). This effect was partially decreased in the presence of nifedipine by inhibition of the vascular calcium channel pathway in isolated rat thoracic aorta.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrates the beneficial effect of Haloxylon scoparium as an antihypertensive agent. Moreover, this plant exerts vasorelaxant activity via the blockade of Ca²⁺ channels.

In Vivo Antihypertensive Activity and UHPLC-Orbitrap-HRMS Profiling of Cuphea ignea A. DC

Cuphea ignea A. DC. is an ornamental tropical plant belonging to the family Lythraceae. The aim of this study is to verify the in vivo antihypertensive potential of C. ignea A. DC. and to explore its metabolic profile using a UHPLC-Orbitrap-HRMS technique. The results revealed that the ethanolic extract of the leaves in two doses (250 and 500 mg/kg b.wt.) significantly normalized the elevated systolic blood pressure in N(G)-nitro-l-arginine-methyl ester-induced hypertension in rats. An angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) concentration was significantly decreased by the high dose extract compared to lisinopril. Nitric oxide (NO) level was significantly restored by both doses. Concerning the oxidative stress parameters, both doses displayed significant reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) level while the high dose restored elevated glutathione level. These biochemical results were clearly supported by the histopathological examination of the isolated heart and aorta. A UHPLC-Orbitrap-HRMS study was represented by a detailed metabolic profile of leaves and flowers of C. ignea A. DC., where 53 compounds were identified among which flavonoids, fatty acids, and hydrolysable tannins were the major identified classes. This study established scientific evidence for the use of C. ignea A. DC., a member of genus Cuphea as a complementary treatment in the management of hypertension.

Antioxidant Stability of Moringa Leaves Extract Powders Obtained by Cocrystallization, Vacuum Drying, and Plating

Cocrystallization, vacuum drying, and plating are three potential applications to preserve the antioxidant activity of moringa leaves. Moringa leaves extract was incorporated with sucrose at the same concentration (7 : 100, solid : solid) for all applications and stored for 30 days. This study aims to examine the effects of each application on the antioxidant stability of moringa leaves extract powders. Morphological properties by SEM showed that cocrystallized powders exhibited porous, agglomerated crystals, vacuum dried powders exhibited agglomerated crystals, and plated powders exhibited layered crystals. Based on XRD and hygroscopicity results, cocrystallization produced powders with the highest crystallinity, i.e., 69.11%, and the lowest hygroscopicity, i.e., 0.26 × 10−4 ± 0.02 × 10−4 g H2O/g solid/minute due to the slow water intake of the crystalline structure. Powders with the strongest initial antioxidant activity were obtained from cocrystallization, i.e., 3647.96 ± 20.29 ppm and followed by vacuum drying, i.e., 4378.51 ± 26.29 ppm. The least antioxidant activity was obtained from plating, i.e., 4733.46 ± 31.91 ppm. During 30 days of storage, powders obtained by cocrystallization maintained the most stable antioxidant activity (91.81–91.12%). The results indicated that the high temperature used in the process was likely to impact crystalline structure through the pore formation, which entrapped bioactive compounds and resulted in strong antioxidant activity. While, vacuum drying resulted in powders with a lower but increased antioxidant activity (84.06%–86.43%). In contrast to the other two applications, plating resulted in a decreased antioxidant activity (83.77–82.25%). This study suggests that application of cocrystallization produced moringa leaves extract powders with the strongest and most stable antioxidant activity during storage. Preserving the antioxidant stability of plant extract has been one of the major drives in the development of food encapsulation technology. Cocrystallization and vacuum drying are two relatively novel, less common techniques offering a simpler and more cost-effective method, but their effect on the antioxidant stability of moringa leaves extract has not yet been studied. This study discloses the effects of cocrystallization, vacuum drying, and plating (alternative extract incorporation method) on the antioxidant stability of moringa leaves extract powders. The results indicated that the three methods produced powders with high crystallinity and stable antioxidant stability during storage. Among the three methods, cocrystallization was the method that resulted in powders with the strongest and most stable antioxidant activity.

Regulation of blood pressure by natural sulfur compounds: Focus on their mechanisms of action

Natural sulfur compounds are emerging as therapeutic options for the management of hypertension and prehypertension. They are mainly represented by polysulfides from Alliaceae (i.e., garlic) and isothiocyanates from Brassicaceae (or crucifers). The beneficial cardiovascular effects of these compounds, especially garlic polysulfides, are well known and widely reported both in preclinical and clinical studies. However, only a few authors have linked the ability of natural sulfur compounds to induce vasorelaxation and subsequent antihypertensive effects with their ability to release hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) in biological tissue. H₂S is an endogenous gasotransmitter involved in vascular tone regulation. Some cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, are associated with lower plasma H₂S levels. Consequently, exogenous sources of H₂S (H₂S donors) have been designed and synthesized or identified among secondary plant metabolites as potential therapeutic options. In addition to antioxidant effects due to its chemical properties as a reducing agent, H₂S induces vasorelaxation by interacting with a range of molecular targets. The mechanisms of action accounting for H₂S-induced vasodilation include opening of vascular potassium channels (such as ATP-sensitive (K_ATP) and voltage-operated (Kv7) channels), inhibition of 5-phosphodiesterase (5-PDE), and activation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2). These effects may be attributed to H₂S-induced S-persulfidation (or S-sulfhydration), which is a posttranslational modification of cysteine residues of many types of proteins resulting in structural and functional alterations (activation/inhibition). Thus, H₂S donors, such as natural sulfur compounds, are promising antihypertensive agents with novel mechanisms of action.

Molecular mechanisms underlying the renal protective effects of coenzyme Q10 in acute kidney injury

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an endogenous antioxidant, has been reported frequently to exert an outstanding protective effect on multiple organ injury, including acute kidney injury (AKI). In this study, we aim to summarize all the current evidence of the protective action of CoQ10 against AKI as there are presently no relevant reviews in the literature. After a systematic search, 20 eligible studies, either clinical trials or experimental studies, were included and further reviewed. CoQ10 treatment exhibited a potent renal protective effect on various types of AKI, such as AKI induced by drugs (e.g., ochratoxin A, cisplatin, gentamicin, L-NAME, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug), extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), sepsis, contrast media, and ischemia–reperfusion injury. The renal protective role of CoQ10 against AKI might be mediated by the antiperoxidative, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory potential of CoQ10. The molecular mechanisms for the protective effects of CoQ10 might be attributed to the regulation of multiple essential genes (e.g., caspase-3, p53, and PON1) and signaling cascades (e.g., Nrf2/HO-1 pathway). This review highlights that CoQ10 may be a potential strategy in the treatment of AKI.

A Comprehensive Review of Moringa oleifera Bioactive Compounds-Cytotoxicity Evaluation and Their Encapsulation

Moringa oleifera Lam. has gained a lot of attention due to its potential use as a functional food not only for human health but also for animal health. Its bioactive molecules include carbohydrates, phenolic compounds, carotenoids, fatty acids, essential amino acids, and functional peptides. Despite significant efforts to isolate and characterize bioactive metabolites with health functions, few effective metabolites are accessible. The current review aims to describe the main processes for extracting and encapsulating bioactive compounds from Moringa oleifera for potential impact on food science and public health. Researchers have shown that different extraction techniques significantly impact the Moringa polysaccharides' molecular structure and biological activity. Encapsulation has been proposed to reduce oxidative stability and entrap active agents within a carrier material to deliver bioactive molecules into foods. Currently, polysaccharides and proteins, followed by lipids, are used for material encapsulation. Recent techniques include spray drying, cross-linking gelation, freeze-drying, nanoencapsulation, electrospinning, and electrospraying. Moreover, these encapsulations can overlap concerns regarding the Moringa oleifera compounds' cytotoxicity. Future studies should prioritize the effect of new encapsulation materials on Moringa extract and develop new techniques that consider both encapsulation cost and efficiency.

Ultrasonic-Cellulase Synergistic Extraction of Crude Polysaccharides from Moringa oleifera Leaves and Alleviation of Insulin Resistance in HepG2 Cells

Moringa oleifera leaves (MOL) are a new food resource, rich in functional factors. MOL polysaccharides are important active macromolecules within MOL. However, there are problems, such as low extraction rates and lack of evidence for functional activity. Therefore, in this experiment, single-factor experiments were carried out using MOL powder as the raw material, and the Plackett-Burman test was used to screen the significantly influential test factors. The extraction process of MOL polysaccharide was optimized by response surface methodology. The insulin resistance alleviating activity of MOLP polysaccharides was initially explored. The results showed that the extraction of Moringa oleifera leaves crude polysaccharides (MOLP) by ultrasonic assisted cellulase enzymatic digestion was (17.03 ± 1.03)%, and the obtained MOLP was a crude polysaccharide with an average molecular weight (Mw) of 279.48 kDa, consisting of fucose, rhamnose, arabinose, galactose, glucose, xylose, mannose, galacturonic acid, and glucuronic acid. MOLP had an IC50 value of 8.02 mg/mL for α-glucosidase and scavenging activity against free radicals such as ABTS, DPPH, hydroxyl radicals, and superoxide anion with an IC50 value of 0.21 mg/mL 0.31 mg/mL 0.97 mg/mL 0.49 mg/mL. At the same time, MOLP significantly enhanced the glucose consumption, glycogen synthesis, CAT, SOD, GSH-Px activity, and reduced the MDA and ROS content in high glucose-induced insulin-resistant HepG2 (IR-HepG2) cells. This experiment improved the extraction rate of MOLP and demonstrated that MOLP has antioxidant activity and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, which can alleviate the insulin resistance of high glucose-induced HepG2 cells. It provides partial data support for the possible hypoglycemic effect of MOLP by alleviating oxidative stress, and also provides new ideas for the in-depth study of basic research and industrial application of MOLP.

Moringa seed-supplemented diets modulate ACE activity but not its gene expression in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats

Introduction: We investigated the effect of dietary inclusions of Moringa seed (5% and 10%) on blood pressure, angiotensin-1 converting enzyme (ACE) activity, and gene expression, as well as redox status in hypertensive rats.Material and methods: Wistar strain albino rats were fed moringa seed-based diets for two weeks prior L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day, p.o.) administration for another ten days. Subsequently, the blood pressure was monitored. Furthermore, the kidney homogenates were assayed for ACE activity and gene expression, as well as oxidative stress markers.Results: The increased (systolic =297 ± 59.30 mmHg; diastolic= 242 ± 51.96 mmHg) blood pressure, arginase activity, and reduced nitric oxide level were significantly ameliorated in hypertensive rats treated with the seed. However, the elevated ACE activity was significantly reduced but not the upregulated ACE1 gene. Also, the reduced antioxidant enzyme activities were ameliorated with a significant downregulation in their regulator-Nrf2. Rutin (4.07 ± 0.02 mg/g) and quercitrin (4.06 ± 0.01 mg/g), among others, were found in the seed.Discussion: This study suggests that moringa seed offers its antihypertensive properties by acting as an ACE inhibitor but not its gene modulator, and also modulates the antioxidant system through interaction with Nrf2.Conclusion: Moringa seed could act as an ACE inhibitor and not its gene modulator.

Bioactive Natural Products against Systemic Arterial Hypertension: A Past 20-Year Systematic and Prospective Review

Background. Systemic arterial hypertension is one of the most common cardiovascular risks, corresponding to 45% of deaths involving CVDs. The use of natural products, such as medicinal plants, belongs to a millennial part of human therapeutics history and has been employed as an alternative anti-hypertensive treatment. Objective. The present review aims to prospect some natural products already experimentally assayed against arterial hypertension through scientific virtual libraries and patent documents over the past 20 years. Search strategy. This is a systematic review of the adoption of the PRISMA protocol and a survey of the scientific literature that synthesizes the results from published articles between 2001 and 2020 concerning the use of medicinal plants in the management of hypertension, including which parts of the plant or organism are used, as well as the mechanisms of action underlying the anti-hypertensive effect. Furthermore, a technological prospection was also carried out in patent offices from different countries in order to check technologies based on natural products claimed for the treatment or prevention of hypertension. Inclusion criteria. Scientific articles where a natural product had been experimentally assayed for anti-hypertensive activity (part of plants, plant extracts, and products derived from other organisms) were included. Data extraction and analysis. The selected abstracts of the articles and patent documents were submitted to a rigorous reading process. Those articles and patents that were not related to anti-hypertensive effects and claimed potential applications were excluded from the search. Results. Eighty specimens of biological species that showed anti-hypertensive activity were recovered, with 01 representative from the kingdom Fungi and 02 from the kingdom Protista, with emphasis on the families Asteraceae and Lamiaceae, with 6 representatives each. Leaves and aerial parts were the most used parts of the plants for the extraction of anti-hypertensive products, with maceration being the most used extraction method. Regarding phytochemical analyses, the most described classes of biomolecules in the reviewed works were alkaloids, terpenes, coumarins, flavonoids, and peptides, with the reduction of oxidative stress and the release of NO among the mechanisms of action most involved in this process. Regarding the number of patent filings, China was the country that stood out as the main one, with 813 registrations. Conclusion. The anti-hypertensive activity of natural products is still little explored in Western countries. Besides, China and India have shown more results in this area than other countries, confirming the strong influence of traditional medicine in these countries.

Antihypertensive effect of Mali-Nil surin rice bran hydrolysate and its mechanisms related to the EDHF-mediated vasorelaxation and L-type Ca2+ channel-mediated vasoconstriction in L-NAME hypertensive rats

Mali-Nil Surin rice bran hydrolysate (MRH) contains highly nutritional proteins and beneficial phenolic compounds. This study investigated an antihypertensive effect of MRH and evaluated the mechanisms mediating this action in N^ω-nitro-L-arginine-methyl ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertensive rats. Antihypertensive activity was determined in male rats orally administered with MRH (100 or 300 mg/kg) or enalapril (15 mg/kg) daily together with L-NAME (50 mg/kg/day) in drinking water, for 21 days. Concurrent oral treatment with MRH lowered the high blood pressure in the L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats. MRH treatment improved endothelial function and increased the endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated vasorelaxation in L-NAME hypertensive rats. L-NAME rats treated with MRH had reduced adrenergic hypercontractility, which was associated with a decrease in L-type calcium channel-mediated vasoconstriction. In addition, MRH exhibited antioxidant activity in hypertensive rats, as indicated by suppression of vascular superoxide anion production and reduction of malondialdehyde levels, as well as magnification of superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in serum. This study demonstrated the nutraceutical potential of MRH to prevent oxidative stress-related vascular dysfunction in hypertension.

Metabolomics based mechanistic insights to vasorelaxant and cardioprotective effect of ethanolic extract of Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai. seeds in isoproterenol induced myocardial infraction

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a significant cause of morbidity and death in the current world, posing a challenge to both developing and industrialized nation's health systems. Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai. seeds have long been utilized to supplement and enhance health and treat cardiovascular illnesses. However, its treatments for CVDs are still unknown. More research is required to fully comprehend the impact of C. lanatus seeds on vasorelaxation and myocardial infractions.

PURPOSE

Therefore, an integrated metabolomics profiling technique was used to investigate possible pathways of C. lanatus in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction (MI). Isoproterenol causes long-term cardiac hypertrophy by causing cardiomyocyte compensatory loss, eventually leading to heart failure.

METHODS

In vitro models of vasoconstriction, atrium, and in vivo models of invasive blood pressure measurement and isoproterenol (ISO) induced cardiac hypertrophy in rats were used to understand underlying mechanistic by LC-MS/MS based dynamic metabolomics analysis of the serum and heart samples to be investigated the effect of ethanolic extract of C. lanatus (Cl.EtOH).

RESULTS

Cl.EtOH exhibited vasorelaxant, negative chronotropic, and inotropic effects in in-vitro models whereas, a potent hypotensive effect was observed in normotensive rats. The Cl.EtOH protected the animals from ISO-induced myocardial infarction (MI) with therapeutic interventions in left ventricular thickness, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, mRNA gene expression, biochemical assays, and metabolomic profiling of serum and heart tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

For the first time, our study confirmed that C. lanatus seeds (Cl.EtOH) possess significant antihypertensive and prevent ISO-induced myocardial infarction. These findings comprehensively demonstrated mechanistic insights of Cl.EtOH in vasorelaxation and myocardial infarction. The current study provides evidence for further mechanistic studies and the development of C. lanatus seeds as a potential therapeutic intervention for patients with cardiovascular disorders.

Moringa Oleifera Lam. in Cardiometabolic Disorders: A Systematic Review of Recent Studies and Possible Mechanism of Actions

Cardiometabolic disorders (CMD) have become a global emergency and increasing burden on health and economic problems. Due to the increasing need for new drugs for cardiometabolic diseases, many alternative medicines from plants have been considered and studied. Moringa oleifera Lam. (MO), one of the native plants from several Asian countries, has been used empirically by people for various kinds of illnesses. In the present systematic review, we aimed to investigate the recent studies of MO in CMD and its possible mechanism of action. We systematically searched from three databases and summarized the data. This review includes a total of 108 papers in nonclinical studies and clinical trials of MO in cardiometabolic-related disorders. Moringa oleifera, extracts or isolated compound, exerts its effect on CMD through its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory actions resulting in the modulation in glucose and lipid metabolism and the preservation of target organ damage. Several studies supported the beneficial effect of MO in regulating the gut microbiome, which generates the diversity of gut microbiota and reduces the number of harmful bacteria in the caecum. Molecular actions that have been studied include the suppression of NF-kB translocation, upregulation of the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway, stimulation of total antioxidant capacity by reducing PKCζ activation, and inhibiting the Nox4 protein expression and several other proposed mechanisms. The present review found substantial evidence supporting the potential benefits of Moringa oleifera in cardiovascular or metabolic disorders.

Potential Effects of Natural H2S-Donors in Hypertension Management

After the discovery of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) in the central nervous system by Abe and Kimura in 1996, the physiopathological role of H₂S has been widely investigated in several systems such as the cardiovascular. In particular, H₂S plays a pivotal role in the control of vascular tone, exhibiting mechanisms of action able to induce vasodilation: for instance, activation of potassium channels (KATP and Kv7) and inhibition of 5-phosphodiesterase (5-PDE). These findings paved the way for the research of natural and synthetic exogenous H₂S-donors (i.e., molecules able to release H₂S) in order to have new tools for the management of hypertension. In this scenario, some natural molecules derived from Alliaceae (i.e., garlic) and Brassicaceae (i.e., rocket or broccoli) botanical families show the profile of slow H₂S-donors able to mimic the endogenous production of this gasotransmitter and therefore can be viewed as interesting potential tools for management of hypertension or pre-hypertension. In this article, the preclinical and clinical impacts of these natural H₂S-donors on hypertension and vascular integrity have been reviewed in order to give a complete panorama of their potential use for the management of hypertension and related vascular diseases.

Antihypertensive and Vasorelaxant Effects of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis through Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme-2 (ACE-2), and Ca2+ channels Pathways

AIMS

The aim of the study was to assess the antihypertensive activity of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.

BACKGROUND

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is used traditionally to treat hypertension.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of the study was to investigate the effect of the aqueous extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flowers (AEHRS) on resting blood pressure in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In the present study, AEHRS was prepared and its antihypertensive activity was evaluated using in vivo and in vitro studies. In the in vivo study, hypertensive and normotensive rats were treated by AEHRS (100 mg/kg) orally for 6 hours in the acute treatment and for 7 days in the subchronic treatment. Systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure values and heart rate were then recorded using a tail cuff and a computer-assisted monitoring device. To assess the vasorelaxant activity of AEHRS, isolated thoracic aortic rings were suspended in a tissue bath and changes in tension were recorded using a data acquisition system. Potential pathways involved in the vasorelaxant activity were evaluated using several standard pharmacological agents.

RESULTS

The results indicated that repeated oral administration of AEHRS during 7 days lowered systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure in hypertensive rats without affecting normotensive rats. Furthermore, the data revealed that AEHRS exerts vasorelaxant properties via an endothelium-independent pathway. More interestingly, the study demonstrates that the vasorelaxant capacity of AEHRS seems to be exerted through the stimulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) and the inhibition of Ca2+ channels pathway.

CONCLUSION

The present study revealed that aqueous extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis has a significant antihypertensive activity and that its vasorelaxant effect may be mediated through stimulation of ACE-2, and inhibition of the Ca2+ channels.

Dietary Moringa oleifera Alters Periparturient Plasma and Milk Biochemical Indicators and Promotes Productive Performance in Goats

The purpose of the current study was to explore the supplementing effects of Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) on plasma and milk biochemical indices and productive/reproductive performance of goats. A total of 30 healthy pregnant goats were randomly distributed (n = 10) into three experimental groups: control (M₀) group (basal diet without MOLP), M_2% group (basal diet + 2% MOLP), and M_3.5% group (basal diet + 3.5% MOLP). The experiment started 2 months before parturition and continued till the first month of lactation. The plasma flavonoids were significantly increased in the M_3.5% group during the entire experiment, whereas the total phenolic contents were enhanced only during the lactation period depending on the supplementation percentage. The amount of vitamin C increased significantly in M_2% and M_3.5% groups as compared to the M₀ group. Supplementation of MOLP improved the plasma total antioxidant capacity by declining malondialdehyde concentration and total oxidant status values. The activities of superoxide dismutase and peroxidase enzymes were modified in M_2% and M_3.5% supplemented groups throughout the experiment, while the catalase activity was significantly influenced only during the lactation stage. The protein and lycopene contents in plasma were significantly improved in the M_3.5% group, whereas the total sugars and carotenoid level was increased in both M_2% and M_3.5% groups. Dietary supplementation with 3.5% MOLP more effectively enhanced protease and amylase activities as compared to 2% supplementation. MOLP also improved the biochemical indices and antioxidant status of colostrum and milk. The milk yield, weight gain of the kids, and reproductive performance were high in M_2% and M_3.5% groups in comparison to the M₀ group. These findings disclose that supplementing the diet with 3.5% MOLP improves antioxidant status, milk yield, and reproductive performance in goats.

Recent Advances in Drumstick (Moringa oleifera) Leaves Bioactive Compounds: Composition, Health Benefits, Bioaccessibility, and Dietary Applications

Based on the availability of many nutrients, Moringa oleifera tree leaves have been widely employed as nutrients and nutraceuticals in recent years. The leaves contain a small amount of anti-nutritional factors and are abundant in innumerable bioactive compounds. Recently, in several in vivo and in vitro investigations, moringa leaves’ bioactive components and functionality are highlighted. Moringa leaves provide several health advantages, including anti-diabetic, antibacterial, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. The high content of phytochemicals, carotenoids, and glucosinolates is responsible for the majority of these activities as reported in the literature. Furthermore, there is growing interest in using moringa as a value-added ingredient in the development of functional foods. Despite substantial study into identifying and measuring these beneficial components from moringa leaves, bioaccessibility and bioavailability studies are lacking. This review emphasizes recent scientific evidence on the dietary and bioactive profiles of moringa leaves, bioavailability, health benefits, and applications in various food products. This study highlights new scientific data on the moringa leaves containing nutrient and bioactive profiles, bioavailability, health benefits, and uses in various food items. Moringa has been extensively used as a health-promoting food additive because of its potent protection against various diseases and the widespread presence of environmental toxins. More research is needed for utilization as well as to study medicinal effects and bioaccesibility of these leaves for development of various drugs and functional foods.

The Potency of Moringa oleifera Lam. as Protective Agent in Cardiac Damage and Vascular Dysfunction

Cardiac damage and vascular dysfunction due to underlying diseases, such as hypertension and cardiac thrombosis, or side effects from certain drugs may lead to critical illness conditions and even death. The phytochemical compounds in natural products are being prospected to protect the heart and vascular system from further damage. Moringa genus is a subtropical tree native to Asia and Africa, which includes 13 species; Moringa oleifera Lam. (MO) is the most cultivated for its beneficial uses. MO is also known as the “miracle tree” because it has been used traditionally as a food source and medicine to treat various diseases such as anemia, diabetes, and infectious or cardiovascular diseases. The phytochemical compounds identified in MO with functional activities associated with cardiovascular diseases are N,α-L-rhamnopyranosyl vincosamide, isoquercetin, quercetin, quercetrin, and isothiocyanate. This study aims to investigate the potency of the phytochemical compounds in MO as a protective agent to cardiac damage and vascular dysfunction in the cardiovascular disease model. This is a scoping review by studying publications from the reputed database that assessed the functional activities of MO, which contribute to the improvement of cardiac and vascular dysfunctions. Studies show that the phytochemical compounds, for example, N,α-L-rhamnopyranosyl vincosamide and quercetin, have the molecular function of antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptosis. These lead to improving cardiac contractility and protecting cardiac structural integrity from damage. These compounds also act as natural vasorelaxants and endothelium protective agents. Most of the studies were conducted on in vivo studies; therefore, further studies should be applied in a clinical setting.

Medicinal Plants in the Treatment of Hypertension: A Review

Traditional medicine is a comprehensive term for ancient, culture-bound health care practices that existed before the use of science in health matters and has been used for centuries. Medicinal plants are used to treat patients with cardiovascular diseases, which may occur due to ailments of the heart and blood vessels and comprise heart attacks, cerebrovascular diseases, hypertension, and heart failure. Hypertension causes difficulty in the functioning of the heart and is involved in atherosclerosis, raising the risk of heart attack and stroke. Many drugs are available for managing these diseases, though common antihypertensive drugs are generally accompanied by many side effects. Medicinal herbs have several active substances with pharmacological and prophylactic properties that can be used in the treatment of hypertension. This review presents an overview of some medicinal plants that have been shown to have hypotensive or antihypertensive properties.

Health benefits and phenolic compounds of Moringa oleifera leaves: A comprehensive review

BACKGROUND

Moringa oleifera Lam (MO) is native to India and is a cash crop widely cultivated in tropical and sub-tropical areas. The health improving properties of MO has been studied from a long time ago for the numerous phenolic compounds, including vitamins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, isothiocyanates, tannins and saponins, which are present in considerable amounts in the plant. A growing spectrum of therapeutic characteristics of MO leaves has been found and used in the remission or treatment of oxidative stress, liver disease, neurological disease, hyperglycemia and cancer.

HYPOTHESIS

This review focused on researches applying MO or MO leaf extract as a functional food or cure against various disease and cellular injuries. We believed it would help the discovery of therapeutic application of MO and understanding of MO phytochemistry.

METHODS

The data collected in this review were extracted from researches indexed in Web of Science, google scholar, PubMed, Science Direct and Scopus to find out health benefits and biological activities of MO leaves polyphenols. The studies reporting mechanistic route of phenolic compounds of MO leaves were also considered in the present study.

RESULTS

It has been reported that polyphenols of MO leaf have protective characteristics against neurodegenerative disorders through reducing DNA damage, activation of AchE activity and inhibition of caspase-3 activity. It has been reported that, they protected the kidney from damage caused by melamine through suppressed the pro-inflammatory cytokine, metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 (TIMP-1), and kidney injury molecule 1 (KIM-1). Similarly, methanol extract of MO leaves has low hypoglycemic attributes and attenuate the risk of diabetes caused by alloxan by enhancing lipid metabolism and stimulating insulin release, glucose uptake, and glycogen synthesis. In addition, MO leaves are becoming the best phytomedicine to reduce hypertension, which are naturally known as angiotensin-1converting enzyme (ACE), acetylcholinesterase, arginase and phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.

CONCLUSION

MO leaves extract as a health promoting food additives for human and animals due to its great protective effect against many diseases and the widely persistent environmental toxins which disrupted cellular metabolic function. More studies are required to use the phenolic compounds of MO leaves to develop and produce drugs for controlling and treatment of various diseases.

Compressional Physics of Binary Mixture of Dried Andrographis paniculata and Moringa oleifera Leaves

Traditionally, the leafy part of Andrographis paniculata and Moringa oleifera have been widely reported to manage hypertension. Investigation of its pharmacological actions justifies its use. As part of formulation studies to standardize them, this study focused on their compaction and compression properties. Compacts equivalent to 250 mg of A. paniculata and M. oleifera were produced by compressing powders and granules at various compression pressure. Results show that M. oleifera met the WHO limit for ash values. Relative density values for granulated batches were higher, while their moisture content values were lower when compared to those of direct compression. The result from Heckel plots shows that batches deform mainly by plastic flow. For Kawakita plots, values of 1/b show that batches containing microcrystalline cellulose were less cohesive. The plot of tensile strength signifies that granulated batches achieved maximum crushing strength faster at low pressure. Formulations containing maize starch were shown to have higher percent porosity, and granulated batches gave higher values for apparent density-pressure relationship and lower friability values. Tablets produced by the wet granulation method showed better compression and compaction properties than those formulated by direct compression.

Antihypertensive activity of the ACE-renin inhibitory peptide derived from Moringa oleifera protein

Moringa oleifera (MO) leaf is a potential plant protein resource with high nutritional and medicinal value. The study aims to investigate the hypotensive activity and stability of MO leaf peptides. MO leaf protein was extracted and then hydrolyzed with Alcalase to produce the MO leaf protein hydrolysate (MOPH). The MOPH was separated into peptide fractions with different molecular weights by membrane ultrafiltration. The MOPH and ultrafiltration fractions were evaluated for antihypertensive activity. Inhibition of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (84.71 ± 0.07%) and renin (43.72 ± 0.02%) was significantly higher for <1 kDa peptides when compared to other fractions. Oral administration of the <1 kDa component in spontaneously hypertensive rats positively lowers the blood pressure (∼17 mmHg). The <1 kDa component was isolated and purified subsequently; the final active component was identified by mass spectrometry and amino acid sequence analysis. Two highly active ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) and renin dual inhibitory peptides Leu-Gly-Phe-Phe (LGF) and Gly-Leu-Phe-Phe (GLFF) were obtained. The two peptides exhibited a good dual inhibitory activity of ACE and renin with IC50 values of LGF (0.29 ± 0.13 mM, 1.88 ± 0.08 mM) and GLFF (0.31 ± 0.04 mM, 2.80 ± 0.08 mM). Furthermore, in vivo models, LGF and GLFF significantly reduced the systolic blood pressure (19.4 mmHg; 18.2 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure (12 mmHg; 13.8 mmHg) of SHRs (spontaneously hypertensive rats). The peptide transmembrane transport experiments and simulated gastrointestinal digestion experiments with LGF and GLFF showed that they can resist gastrointestinal digestion in a complete form. Thus, bioactive peptides from MO leaf may possess the potential to be used for treating hypertension in humans.

Diosmetin Ameliorates Vascular Dysfunction and Remodeling by Modulation of Nrf2/HO-1 and p-JNK/p-NF-κB Expression in Hypertensive Rats

Diosmetin is a citrus flavonoid that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This study examined the effect of diosmetin on blood pressure and vascular alterations and its underlying mechanisms in experimentally hypertensive rats. Male Sprague rats were administered Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester L-NAME for five weeks and were given diosmetin at doses of 20 or 40 mg/kg or captopril (5 mg/kg) for two weeks. Diosmetin alleviated hypertension, improved endothelial dysfunction, and suppressed the overactivity of sympathetic nerve-mediated vasoconstriction in aorta and mesentery hypertensive rats (p < 0.05). Increases in plasma and aortic tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and carotid superoxide generations and reductions of plasma superoxide dismutase, catalase, and nitric oxide in hypertensive rats were ameliorated by diosmetin (p < 0.05). Diosmetin increased the protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in hypertensive rats. Furthermore, diosmetin mitigated hypertrophy and collagen accumulation of the aortic wall in L-NAME rats. It exhibited an anti-inflammatory effect by reducing interleukin-6 (IL-6) accumulation and by overexpressing the phospho-c-Jun N-terminal kinases (p-JNK) and the phospho-nuclear factor-kappaB (p-NF-κB) proteins in the aorta (p < 0.05). Captopril was a positive control substance and had similar effects to diosmetin. In summary, diosmetin reduced blood pressure and alleviated vascular abnormalities in L-NAME-treated rats. These effects might be related to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects as well as to the modulation of the expression of the Nrf2/HO1 and p-JNK/NF-κB proteins.

Efficacy and safety of Barg-e-Sahajna (Moringa oleifera Lam.) in primary hypothyroidism

OBJECTIVES

Hypothyroidism is the most common disorder arising from hormone deficiency. It frequently affects women than men. The prevalence of overall hypothyroidism has been reported to be 4.8-11%. Levothyroxine is the treatment of choice for all types of hypothyroidism. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Barg-e-Sahajna (Leaves of Moringa oleifera Lam.) among diagnosed patients of primary hypothyroidism.

METHODS

This study was an open observational study. A total of 22 patients were screened, out of which 10 were excluded (did not meet inclusion criteria) and 2 refused to consent to be part of the study, rest 10 participants were enrolled after obtaining written informed consent finally 8 subjects completed the study and 2 are dropout in last follow up. The drug was given in the form of decoction at the dose of 5 g fresh leaves twice a day after meal for 45 days.

RESULTS

The study effects on objective parameter thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4) were found extremely significant when compared before (16.62 ± 11.49, 132 ± 19.32, 9.28 ± 1.46) and after (4.75 ± 3.12, 150.37 ± 20.68, 11.84 ± 3.81) treatment with a significant decrease in serum TSH level (p<0.0246) and an increase in serum T3 (p<0.0005) and T4 (p<0.0438) levels. The results were analyzed using paired "t" test.

CONCLUSIONS

The improvements in thyroid profiles (TSH, T3 and T4) after consuming 'Barg-e-Sahajna' show that the test drug is effective in primary hypothyroidism and the relief was considerable. No significant effect on safety parameters (serum-glutamic-oxaloacetic-transaminase [SGOT], serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase [SGPT], blood urea, and serum creatinine) was observed. Therefore, it may be concluded that the Barg-e-Sahajna is preliminarily safe and effective in the management of primary hypothyroidism.

Efficacy and safety of Barg-e-Sahajna (Moringa olifera Lam.) in primary hypothyroidism

OBJECTIVES

Hypothyroidism is the most common disorder arising from hormone deficiency. It frequently affects women than men. The prevalence of overall hypothyroidism has been reported to be 4.8-11%. Levothyroxine is the treatment of choice for all types of hypothyroidism. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Barg-e-Sahajna (Leaves of Moringa olifera Lam.) among diagnosed patients of primary hypothyroidism.

METHODS

This study was an open observational study. A total of 22 patients were screened, out of which 10 were excluded (did not meet inclusion criteria) and 2 refused to consent to be part of the study, rest 10 participants were enrolled after obtaining written informed consent finally 8 subjects completed the study and 2 are dropout in last follow up. The drug was given in the form of decoction at the dose of 5 g fresh leaves twice a day after meal for 45 days.

RESULTS

The study effects on objective parameter thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4) were found extremely significant when compared before (16.62 ± 11.49, 132 ± 19.32, 9.28 ± 1.46) and after (4.75 ± 3.12, 150.37 ± 20.68, 11.84 ± 3.81) treatment with a significant decrease in serum TSH level (p<0.0246) and an increase in serum T3 (p<0.0005) and T4 (p<0.0438) levels. The results were analyzed using paired "t" test.

CONCLUSIONS

The improvements in thyroid profiles (TSH, T3 and T4) after consuming 'Barg-e-Sahajna' show that the test drug is effective in primary hypothyroidism and the relief was considerable. No significant effect on safety parameters (serum-glutamic-oxaloacetic-transaminase [SGOT], serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase [SGPT], blood urea, and serum creatinine) was observed. Therefore, it may be concluded that the Barg-e-Sahajna is preliminarily safe and effective in the management of primary hypothyroidism.

Preclinical Evaluation of the Antihypertensive Effect of an Aqueous Extract of Anogeissus leiocarpa (DC) Guill et Perr. Bark of Trunk in L-NAME-Induced Hypertensive Rat

BACKGROUND

The present study investigates the effect of an aqueous extract of Anogeissus leiocarpa (AEAL) on normotensive Wistar rats and its chronic antihypertensive effects in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats by using a non-invasive tail-cuff model.

METHODS

The effects of AEAL (50mg/kg) and NaCl 0.9% on blood pressure were investigated by daily oral administration in normotensive Wistar rats over four weeks. L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats were produced by L-NAME (40mg/kg) daily oral administration for two weeks. For chronic antihypertensive effects, induced hypertensive rats have received L-NAME in combination with AEAL (10 or 50mg/kg/day) for two following weeks.

RESULTS

In normotensive rats, daily administration of AEAL (50mg/kg) has no significant effect on their blood pressure, which was similar to that of the control group. L-NAME's daily oral administration induces a progressive increase in systolic blood pressure (SBP) from 115.8 ± 7.9mmHg to 153.5 ± 4.6mmHg after two weeks, which was maintained to the end of the treatment. In L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats, AEAL (50mg/kg/day) significantly decreases the SPB from 160.0 ± 5.8 mmHg to 108.8 ± 2.7mmHg after only four days of administration. However, the lower dose of AEAL (10mg/kg) also normalized the SBP of L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats but only evident after seven days of administration. Moreover, AEAL does not effect on the serum biochemical parameters (ALAT, ASAT, CREAT, etc.) and any macroscopic adverse effect was detected on the sensible organs involved during hypertension. In the aorta rings from treated rats, AEAL (50mg/kg/day) alone or in combination with L-NAME has enhanced the vasodilation effect of acetylcholine. However, the vasodilation effect of AEAL alone or in association with L-NAME has enhanced the sodium nitroprusside effect in treated rat aorta rings after autopsy.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that AEAL affords significant antihypertensive effects against L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats without modification of serum parameters and deleterious effects.

Moringa oleifera Supplementation Improves Antioxidant Status and Biochemical Indices by Attenuating Early Pregnancy Stress in Beetal Goats

This study investigated the effects of supplementing different levels of Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) on antioxidant status and blood biochemical indices during early gestation in Beetal goats. A total of 30 goats were randomly divided into three groups (n = 10) comprising control (basal diet without MOLP), the 1.6% MOLP supplemented group (basal diet + 1.6% MOLP), and the 3.2% MOLP supplemented group (basal diet + 3.2% MOLP). The experiment started 5 days before estrus synchronization and lasted till day 60 of gestation. The MOLP significantly increased plasma flavonoids in 1.6% as well as 3.2% supplemented group on days 40 and 60 of pregnancy, while total phenolic contents were observed to be higher in the 3.2% MOLP supplemented group throughout the experiment in comparison with the control group. The supplementation improved plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) by decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA) and total oxidant status (TOS) in contrast to the control group. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) were enhanced in both supplemented groups, whereas catalase (CAT) activity was noticed to be significantly high in the 3.2% MOLP supplemented group. The protein contents were significantly elevated with 1.6 and 3.2% supplementation levels from day 40 to day 60 of the experiment. Plasma sugar level, carotenoids, progesterone profile, and hydrolytic (protease and amylase) enzymes activities were improved only when supplemented with 3.2% MOLP. The findings suggest that supplementing with 3.2% MOLP provides beneficial effects on early pregnancy stress in Beetal goats.

Clitoria ternatea L. extract prevents kidney damage by suppressing the Ang II/Nox4/oxidative stress cascade in l-NAME-induced hypertension model of rats

Clitoria ternatia L. (CT) has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This study investigated the effect of CT aqueous flower extract on blood pressure and renal alterations in N^ω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (l-NAME)-induced hypertensive rats. Male Sprague Dawley rats received l-NAME in drinking water and were treated with CT flower extract or lisinopril. CT aqueous flower extract and lisinopril alleviated l-NAME-induced hypertension (p < 0.05). Glomerular extracellular matrix accumulation, renal fibrosis, and increased serum creatinine levels were observed in l-NAME-induced hypertensive rats and attenuated by CT flower extract or lisinopril co-treatment (p < 0.05). High levels of plasma angiotensin II (Ang II) and upregulated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 4 (Nox4) protein expression in the kidneys induced by l-NAME were alleviated by CT flower extract or lisinopril co-treatment (p < 0.05). Furthermore, CT flower extract and lisinopril treatment reduced lipid peroxidation and elevated plasma and kidney malondialdehyde levels in l-NAME-induced hypertensive rats (p < 0.05). In conclusion, CT flower extract prevented l-NAME-induced renal injury and dysfunction in rats. The possible mechanism may be related to the suppression of Ang II-mediated Nox4 expression and the oxidative stress cascade in rats.

Thymoquinone, extract from Nigella sativa seeds, protects human skin keratinocytes against UVA-irradiated oxidative stress, inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction

Ultraviolet A (UVA) irradiation caused skin keratinocytes to accumulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to the skin injury. Thymoquinone (TQ) was identified as the prominent bioactive ingredient in Nigella sativa seeds which was applied in therapying various human diseases. This study aimed to illustrate the role and mechanism of TQ in UVA-induced skin injury. We pre-treated HaCaT cells with TQ and irradiated them by UVA. MTT and Elisa assays were used to evaluate cell viability and apoptosis, as well as cytokine levels. To detect the related parameters of oxidative stress and mitochondrial function, colorimetry, spectrophotometry, bioluminescence, and dual-luciferase reporter methods were used. RT-qPCR and western blotting were performed for expressions of related mRNAs and proteins. TQ significantly improved the UVA-induced cytotoxicity on HaCaT cells. TQ treatment alleviated the oxidative stress and inflammation in UVA-irradiated keratinocytes. Besides, UVA irradiation promoted mitochondrial dysregulation in HaCaT cells leading to cell apoptosis, which could be reversed by TQ treatment. More importantly, NrF2/ARE pathway was activated in TQ-treated cells, while COX-2 was depressed, and inhibiting the pathway or activating COX-2 blocked the therapeutic effect of TQ on UVA-induced skin cell injury. Our study suggested that TQ treatment attenuated the UVA-induced oxidative and inflammatory responses, as well as mitochondrial apoptosis in keratinocytes by COX-2 inhibition via activating NrF2/ARE pathway. This might be a novel sight for preventing the solar radiation damage to the skin.

Polyphenol-Rich Extract from Litchi chinensis Seeds Alleviates Hypertension-Induced Renal Damage in Rats

Litchi chinensis seed is a valuable byproduct of the subtropical fruit litchi (L. chinensis Sonn.), whose extract (LSE) has been confirmed to ameliorate dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and oxidative stress caused by type 2 diabetes. However, if LSE exerts an effect on anti-hypertension and hypertensive renal damage remains unknown. In this study, 13 polyphenols and one fatty acid were identified by UPLC-Q/TOF-MS. Network pharmacological analysis revealed that the therapeutic effects of LSE may be involved in multitargets and multipathways, such as the TNF signaling pathway, interleukin (IL)-6-mediated signaling pathway, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, removal of superoxide radicals, negative regulation of blood pressure, and so forth. Moreover, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) were daily gavaged with LSE (60 mg/kg) for 10 weeks. LSE remarkably reduced systolic blood pressure (SBP). The hypertension-induced renal damage was improved by suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress, which was consistent with the prediction of network pharmacology. In addition, LSE treatment remarkably increased the relative abundances of Lactobacillus and the production of short-chain fatty acids in the intestine. Our study indicated that a byproduct of litchi, namely, litchi seed, may be effective in reducing SBP and alleviating hypertensive renal damage.

Phytotherapy for Cardiovascular Disease: A Bench-to-Bedside Approach

At present, cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and global trends suggest that this panorama will persist or worsen in the near future. Thus, optimization of treatment strategies and the introduction of novel therapeutic alternatives for CVD represent key objectives in contemporary biomedical research. In recent years, phytotherapy-defined as the therapeutic use of whole or minimally modified plant components-has ignited large scientific interest, with a resurgence of abundant investigation on a wide array of medicinal herbs (MH) for CVD and other conditions. Numerous MH have been observed to intervene in the pathophysiology of CVD via a myriad of molecular mechanisms, including antiinflammatory, anti-oxidant, and other beneficial properties, which translate into the amelioration of three essential aspects of the pathogenesis of CVD: Dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Although the preclinical data in this scenario is very rich, the true clinical impact of MH and their purported mechanisms of action is less clear, as large-scale robust research in this regard is in relatively early stages and faces important methodological challenges. This review offers a comprehensive look at the most prominent preclinical and clinical evidence currently available concerning the use of MH in the treatment of CVD from a bench-to-bedside approach.

Hydrogen sulfide as a mediator of endothelium-dependent relaxation evoked by Moringa oleifera leaf extract in mesenteric arterial beds isolated from L-NAME hypertensive rats

OBJECTIVES

Aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOE) is a potent inducer of endothelium-dependent relaxation of mesenteric resistance arteries of rats induced to be hypertensive using N^ω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) has been shown to participate in endothelium-dependent relaxation of small resistance arteries. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether endothelial H₂S-dependent signaling plays a role in the vasorelaxation in response to MOE.

METHODS

Mesenteric arterial beds isolated from L-NAME hypertensive rats were set up in an ex vivo perfusion system for measurement of vasoreactivity. All experiments were performed in the presence of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, L-NAME (100 µM) and the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin (10 µM) to prevent the formation of nitric oxide and prostanoids, respectively.

RESULTS

In the presence of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, L-NAME and the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, the endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation induced by MOE (0.001-3 mg) was completely inhibited by DL-propargylglycine (100 µM), which inhibits the H₂Sgenerating enzyme, cystathionine γ-lyase. This H₂Sdependent response was reduced by the K_ATP channel blocker; glibenclamide (10 µM), the K_Ca channel blocker; tetraethylammonium (1 µM), and the myo-endothelial gap-junctional uncoupler; 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid (10 µM). In contrast, the muscarinic receptor antagonist, atropine (100 µM), did not affect the response to MOE.

CONCLUSIONS

The results may suggest that H₂S is the likely mediator of endothelium-dependent relaxation in response to MOE in mesenteric arterial beds of L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats. MOE-induced H₂S-dependent vasorelaxation involves activation of K_ATP and K_Ca channels and requires myo-endothelial gap-junctional communication.

Chronic L-Name-Treatment Produces Hypertension by Different Mechanisms in Peripheral Tissues and Brain: Role of Central eNOS

The goal of our study was to analyze the time course of the effect of N^G-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms and nuclear factor–κB (NF-κB) protein expression, total NOS activity, and blood pressure (BP) in rats. Adult 12-week-old male Wistar rats were subjected to treatment with L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day) for four and seven weeks. BP was increased after 4- and 7-week L-NAME treatments. NOS activity decreased after 4-week-L-NAME treatment; however, the 7-week treatment increased NOS activity in the aorta, heart, and kidney, while it markedly decreased NOS activity in the brainstem, cerebellum, and brain cortex. The 4-week-L-NAME treatment increased eNOS expression in the aorta, heart, and kidney and this increase was amplified after 7 weeks of treatment. In the brain regions, eNOS expression remained unchanged after 4-week L-NAME treatment and prolonged treatment led to a significant decrease of eNOS expression in these tissues. NF-κB expression increased in both peripheral and brain tissues after 4 weeks of treatment and prolongation of treatment decreased the expression in the aorta, heart, and kidney. In conclusion, decreased expression of eNOS in the brain regions after 7-week L-NAME treatment may be responsible for a remarkable decrease of NOS activity in these regions. Since the BP increase persisted after 7 weeks of L-NAME treatment, we hypothesize that central regulation of BP may contribute significantly to L-NAME-induced hypertension.

Hypotensive and antihypertensive effects of an aqueous extract from Guinep fruit (Melicoccus bijugatus Jacq) in rats

Melicoccus bijugatus Jacq (Mb) has been reported to have cardiovascular modulatory effects. In this study, we evaluated the antihypertensive effects and mechanism of action of Mb on N^G-Nitro-l-arginine Methyl Ester (l-NAME) and Deoxycorticosterone Acetate (DOCA) rat models. Aqueous extract of Mb fruit (100 mg/kg) was administered for 6 weeks to rats by gavage and blood pressure was recorded. Effects of the extract on vascular reactivity was evaluated using isolated organ baths, and tissues were collected for biochemical and histological analysis. The systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced with extract (100 mg/kg) administration and treatment compared to the hypertensive models. Mb (100 µg/mL) reduced the vascular contractility induced by phenylephrine (PE), and caused a dose-dependent relaxation of PE-induced contraction of aortic vascular rings. The vasorelaxation properties seemed to be endothelium dependent, as well as nitric oxide (NO) and guanylyl cyclase, but not prostaglandin dependent. Histomicrograph of transverse sections of the ventricles from the Mb group did not show abnormalities. The extract significantly (P < 0.05) reduced an l-NAME induced elevation of cardiac output and Creatine Kinase Muscle-Brain (CKMB), but had no significant impact on the activities of arylamine N-acetyltransferase. In conclusion, Mb significantly decreased blood pressure in hypertensive models. The extract possesses the ability to induce endothelium dependent vasodilation, which is dependent on guanylyl cyclase but not prostaglandins.

Moringa oleifera leaf extract induces vasorelaxation via endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization and calcium channel blockade in mesenteric arterial beds isolated from L-NAME hypertensive rats

BACKGROUND

An aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOE) is known to cause relaxation of mesenteric resistance arteries of rats in which hypertension has been induced by the administration of L-NAME, but the mechanism(s) of action of MOE remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate these mechanisms in mesenteric arterial beds isolated from L-NAME induced hypertensive rats. Methods: An investigation of vascular reactivity was conducted on isolated mesenteric arterial beds by measuring the changes in perfusion pressure using an in vitro system.

RESULTS

MOE (0.001-3 mg in 0.1 ml injection volume) caused a dose-dependent relaxation in methoxamine (5 µM) pre-contracted arterial beds, which was partially abolished by endothelium removal. The endothelium-dependent component of vasorelaxation was insensitive to both L-NAME (100 µM) and indomethacin (10 µM), while completely inhibited in high KCl (45 mM)-induced contraction. MOE (1 and 3 mg/ml) showed a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on CaCl₂-induced contractions of denuded preparations in Ca²⁺-free medium containing a high KCl (60 mM) or methoxamine (10 µM). In Ca²⁺-free medium, MOE (3 mg/ml) also inhibited phenylephrine-induced contractions of denuded preparations. Conclusion: These findings suggest that MOE relaxes mesenteric arterial beds of L-NAME hypertensive rats via both endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent mechanisms. The endothelium-dependent action occurred via endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated hyperpolarization. The endothelium-independent action was related to blocking the entry of extracellular Ca²⁺ via voltage-operated and receptor-operated Ca²⁺ channels, and inhibiting mobilization of sarcolemmal Ca²⁺ via inositol trisphosphate receptor Ca²⁺ channels. MOE may be potentially useful as a natural vasodilator against hypertension.

Moringa oleifera leaf extract enhances endothelial nitric oxide production leading to relaxation of resistance artery and lowering of arterial blood pressure

A mass of evidence has identified a promoting of nitric oxide (NO) production in endothelial cells using natural products as a potential strategy to prevent and treat hypertension. This study investigated whether the aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOE) could lower mean arterial pressure (MAP) and relax mesenteric arterial beds in rats via stimulating endothelium-derived NO production. Intravenous administration of MOE (1-30 mg/kg) caused a dose-dependent reduction in MAP in anesthetized rats. In rats pretreated with the NO-synthase inhibitor, N^ω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 30 mg/kg, i.v.), the effect of MOE on MAP was significantly reduced. MOE (0.001-3 mg) induced relaxation in methoxamine (10 μM) pre-contracted mesenteric arterial beds, which was abolished by endothelium denudation. This endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation was reduced by L-NAME (100 μM) or the NO-sensitive guanylyl cyclase inhibitor, 1H- [1,2,4]-oxadiazolo-[4,3-a]-quinoxalin-1-one (10 μM). In primary human pulmonary artery endothelial cells, MOE (3-30 μg/mL) induced NO production, which was inhibited by L-NAME (100 μM) pretreatment. These findings show that MOE stimulates the endothelium-derived NO release for driving its vasorelaxation to lower arterial blood pressure. These suggest the development of MOE as a natural antihypertensive supplement.

Potential of Moringa oleifera to Improve Glucose Control for the Prevention of Diabetes and Related Metabolic Alterations: A Systematic Review of Animal and Human Studies

Moringa oleifera (MO) is a multipurpose plant consumed as food and known for its medicinal uses, among others. Leaves, seeds and pods are the main parts used as food or food supplements. Nutritionally rich and with a high polyphenol content in the form of phenolic acids, flavonoids and glucosinolates, MO has been shown to exert numerous in vitro activities and in vivo effects, including hypoglycemic activity. A systematic search was carried out in the PubMed database and reference lists on the effects of MO on glucose metabolism. Thirty-three animal studies and eight human studies were included. Water and organic solvent extracts of leaves and, secondly, seeds, have been extensively assayed in animal models, showing the hypoglycemic effect, both under acute conditions and in long-term administrations and also prevention of other metabolic changes and complications associated to the hyperglycemic status. In humans, clinical trials are scarce, with variable designs and testing mainly dry leaf powder alone or mixed with other foods or MO aqueous preparations. Although the reported results are encouraging, especially those from postprandial studies, more human studies are certainly needed with more stringent inclusion criteria and a sufficient number of diabetic or prediabetic subjects. Moreover, trying to quantify the bioactive substances administered with the experimental material tested would facilitate comparison between studies.